The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 123B.09, subdivision 5b, to modify the procedures for filling vacancies on school boards. It establishes that any vacancy, except those specified in subdivision 4, must be filled by board appointment during a regular or special meeting. A key insertion in the bill requires that the board first offer the vacant seat to the individual who received the next highest number of votes in the most recent election. If that individual declines the position, the board retains the discretion to appoint another candidate.

Additionally, the bill outlines the timeline for special elections to fill vacancies, mandating that such elections occur no later than the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November following the vacancy, with specific provisions for vacancies occurring close to the election date. It also clarifies that if a vacancy arises due to a member's removal, a special election must be held promptly. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that an appointment is not effective if a valid petition to reject the appointee is filed, requiring signatures from at least five percent of eligible voters in the district.